Business Insights Analyst - Research and Development

Business Insights Analyst - Research and Development Christchurch, City Campus Full Time, Fixed Term for 24 months Focus on research, market intelligence and future opportunities Analyse emerging products, workforce needs, industry and learner trends Fixed term role for 24 months aligned to Research and Development Strategy Mō Tēnei Tūranga Mahi – About the Role Ara Institute of Canterbury is looking for a Business Insights Analyst to help turn complex information into meaningful advice that supports Ara’s Research and Development Strategy, future portfolio pipeline, and informed decision making across the organisation. Working as part of our Business Insights team, you'll focus on business, forecasting, research, market intelligence and future opportunities. Your work will help Ara understand emerging products, workforce needs, changing learner demand, industry trends, market opportunities and the factors that should influence future programme and investment decisions. This is a role for someone who enjoys asking questions, exploring data from multiple sources and connecting the dots between information, trends and strategic decisions. You'll scan the horizon for opportunities and risks, analyse workforce, economic, demographic and education data, and turn complex evidence into practical insights that help guide Ara's future direction. You will work closely with faculties, Marketing and Recruitment, Equity and Ākonga Success, Finance, ICT and external stakeholders to test ideas, understand market demand and ensure decisions are grounded in evidence and community need. Alongside developing reports, dashboards and analytical models, you'll contribute to portfolio reviews, forecasting, scenario planning and the identification of new opportunities for growth and innovation. You'll also play a key role in building the evidence base that supports Ara's Research and Development Strategy and future programme pipeline. As part of the wider Business Insights team, you'll contribute to organisation-wide projects involving data, reporting and systems improvement, while staying connected to sector developments and workforce trends relevant to tertiary education. Ngā Pūkenga Me Ngā Wheako – Skills and Experience We're looking for someone who combines strong analytical capability with genuine curiosity about future trends, opportunities and challenges. You will bring: A relevant degree and experience in data analytics, statistics, economics, business, education, public policy, social sciences, information systems or a similar field. Knowledge of business intelligence, applied research, forecasting, labour‑market analysis and evidence‑based decision‑making. Understanding of the tertiary education environment, public‑sector accountability and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations, or the ability to develop this quickly. Experience turning complex data and information into clear insights that support decision making. Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to identify trends, test assumptions and evaluate evidence. Experience using tools such as Excel, SQL and Power BI to develop reports, dashboards and other analytical products. The confidence to communicate findings clearly to a range of audiences, from technical specialists to senior leaders. A collaborative approach and the ability to build effective working relationships across the organisation. A strong commitment to data quality, accuracy and evidence‑based decision making. If you also have experience in tertiary education, workforce or economic development, market research, public sector planning, forecasting, portfolio analysis or programme development that would be beneficial. Experience working with external datasets such as Stats NZ, MBIE, TEC or other labour market and education data sources would also be advantageous. #J-18808-Ljbffr